There’s a vast array of hydroponic systems available today, particularly for indoor gardening. Initially, I found it challenging to pick the right one, but now that I’ve tried various systems, I can draw some comparisons.
Today, I’ll discuss the differences between the AeroGarden Bounty and the LetPot LPH-Max. Truthfully, both of these systems are top-notch, and it’s hard to pinpoint just one key difference. There’s a lot to cover.
| Product Feature | LetPot LPH-Max 21 | Aerogarden Bounty |
|---|---|---|
| Size (HxWxD) | 28.5″x15.7″x10.4″ (72.5×40.5×26.5 cm) | 29.5″x16.5″x10.9″ (75x42x27.7 cm) |
| Number of pods | 21 | 9 |
| LED power | 36 W | 40 W |
| Wi-Fi/App | Yes/Yes | Yes/No |
| Tank capacity | 7.5 L | 4.5 L |
| Max grow height | 22.2″ (56.5 cm) | 23.2″ (59 cm) |
| Min grow height | 7.4″ (18.5 cm) | 8.2″ (21 cm) |
| Screen/Touchscreen | Yes/No | Yes/No |
| Low Water Reminder | Yes | Yes |
| Nutrient Reminder | No | Yes |
| Dimmable Lights | Yes | Yes |
| Material Finish | Stainless Steel | Matte Plastic |
| Seed pods | Yes | Yes |
| Plant food | Yes | Yes |
| Price | $269.99 | $199.95 |
| Rating | 90/100 |
96/100 |
Technology
Both devices boast innovative tech features that distinguish them from other competitors. I’d like to start with the control panel.
Control Panel
Both the AeroGarden Bounty and the LetPot LPH-Max 21 come with a screen on their control panel. The LetPot LPH-Max 21’s screen is twice the size of the AeroGarden Bounty’s. However, the AeroGarden Bounty features a touchscreen, making it significantly more user-friendly.
Moreover, the AeroGarden Bounty has a multi-tiered menu system, reminiscent of a smartphone, which makes navigating its features a breeze. On the other hand, the LetPot LPH-Max 21 offers only what’s displayed on its screen. And even with its six buttons, it isn’t as intuitive to use.
To its credit, the LetPot LPH-Max 21 offers Wi-Fi connectivity and a dedicated app, allowing users to easily configure the system. It’s worth noting that the AeroGarden Bounty lacks this app feature.
Autonomy
The LetPot LPH-Max 21 shines when it comes to autonomy. It’s fitted with two auxiliary pumps: one to fill the bowl with water from its backup tank, and another to systematically add plant nutrients from an internal reservoir.
While the AeroGarden Bounty also offers a degree of autonomy, it includes a vacation mode to minimize water usage. There’s also the option to attach the AeroVoir, allowing the bowl to refill automatically. Nevertheless, it doesn’t match the LPH-Max 21’s level of self-sufficiency.
Additional Features
Both models come standard with a water level indicator and a pump filter, which, in my view, are crucial for any hydroponic system.
One drawback of the LetPot LPH-Max 21 when used in manual mode is the absence of a plant nutrient reminder, a feature present in the Bounty.
A commendable feature shared by both units is their ability to adjust light brightness. The LPH-Max, however, has a leg up by displaying the water’s temperature in the bowl.
Lastly, both devices come with a built-in clock, allowing users to tailor the lighting schedule. They also keep track of the number of days your plants have been growing.
Read also: Which hydroponics is the most effective?
Size
While both systems are roughly comparable in size, they possess notable differences.
Firstly, let’s talk about the bowl capacity. The LetPot LPH-Max 21 boasts a substantial 7.5-liter capacity, making it one of the largest in indoor hydroponics. In contrast, the Bounty’s bowl can hold only 4.5 liters, which is 3 liters less.
Due to the generous size of the LPH-Max bowl, there’s less concern about frequent water refills. With the Bounty, however, you’ll find yourself monitoring and replenishing the water more often.
Next, let’s delve into the number of plant slots. The LetPot LPH-Max features 21 growing holes, while the Bounty offers 9. But don’t be misled into thinking the Bounty is at a disadvantage. Realistically, growing 21 plants in the LPH-Max isn’t feasible. For both systems, a practical plant count hovers between 8 to 10.
An added bonus for the LetPot LPH-Max is its secondary growing deck, which provides 2 larger spaced slots. This is ideal for cultivating bigger plants, like tomatoes.
As for maximum grow height, both systems are almost neck and neck. The Bounty peaks at 23.2 inches, while the LPH-Max is just an inch shy of that.
Read also: LetPot LPH-Max 21 Pods Review
Efficiency
The AeroGarden Bounty boasts a distinctive feature: its nutrient solution is channeled to the deck and then directed to the top of each plant’s roots. Some of this water then cascades freely from the deck back into the bowl. This process not only oxygenates the water effectively but also ensures optimal delivery of nutrients to the plants.
On the other hand, the LetPot LPH-Max 21’s design uses a pump to slightly propel water upwards, creating a fountain-like effect. However, this approach doesn’t measure up in efficiency when compared to the Bounty.
Another factor influencing efficiency is the power of the LEDs. The Bounty is equipped with 40-watt LEDs, whereas the LPH-Max operates with 36-watt LEDs. Consequently, plants in the Bounty tend to grow at a slightly brisker pace.
Quality
I’d like to dive into the aesthetics, material quality, and overall build of these systems.
The LetPot LPH-Max 21 boasts an appealing design. With its stainless-finish bowl and a mirrored light hood featuring the brand’s logo, the unit exudes a premium feel.
In contrast, the AeroGarden Bounty doesn’t come with the same stainless finish, unless you opt for the Elite version.
But where the Bounty truly shines is in its material quality. The plastic used is notably thicker and more robust. Every component feels securely fastened, and the robust aluminum telescopic light support deserves a special mention.
The LetPot LPH-Max, on the other hand, features a thinner plastic bowl. Its light support, though made of aluminum, doesn’t feel as hefty or durable. My primary gripe is with its deck. Crafted from thin plastic, it doesn’t rest securely atop the bowl and is easily nudged out of position.
Read also: AeroGarden Bounty Basic Review
Comfort
Regarding comfort and noise levels, both systems operate quietly, hovering around 36-38 dBA. The LetPot LPH-Max registers just a few decibels higher than its counterpart when its main pump is in action.
However, the LPH-Max has two extra pumps that periodically kick in, adding to the noise. As a result, there are times when the LetPot LPH-Max is audibly louder than the AeroGarden Bounty.
As for lighting, you won’t experience any harsh glare if you position the systems slightly below eye level. Both units also offer a light-dimming feature, further enhancing user comfort.
Maintenance
Aerogarden Bounty bowl.
The AeroGarden Bounty boasts greater user-friendliness compared to its rival. Its filling port, positioned front and center, is generously sized, making water replenishment a breeze.
In contrast, the LetPot LPH-Max’s water inlet is situated on the side and is considerably smaller. This design proves tricky when adding water, so I often resort to using the plant holes for both water and nutrient top-ups.
When it comes to water changes and bowl cleaning in the Bounty, it’s simply a matter of unplugging one pump. You can then easily lift the bowl and carry it to the sink. With the LetPot LPH-Max, it’s a tad more cumbersome: you need to disconnect the light hood and the main power cable.
Cleaning is more straightforward with the Bounty’s bowl since the pump is attached to the grow deck. Once you detach the deck, you’re left with an unobstructed bowl that’s easy to clean.
Conversely, when you remove the LPH-Max’s grow deck, you’re faced with a bowl housing three pumps, two of which are compartmentalized. Cleaning this setup requires a bit more elbow grease.
LetPot LPH-Max 21 bowl.
Price
The AeroGarden Bounty’s standard price is $459.95, which seems rather steep. However, the company frequently offers discounts and promotional codes. As of now, the Bounty is available for just $199.95, which is a fantastic deal.
Conversely, the LetPot LPH-Max 21 is typically priced at $329 on the manufacturer’s website, a tag that also leans towards the higher end. Currently, though, there’s a promotional offer, bringing its price down to $269.99.
When taking the discounted rates into account, the AeroGarden Bounty comes out on top, offering better value and efficiency. However, if both systems revert to their original prices, the LetPot LPH-Max 21 becomes a more appealing option, given the cost savings.
Summary
In summary, both systems excel in their own right and promise a generous yield. As advanced indoor hydroponic setups, they cater well to both budget-conscious individuals and those already well-versed in hydroponics.
While the AeroGarden Bounty stands out in terms of efficiency, the LetPot LPH-Max 21 offers a more self-sustaining design and boasts a premium appearance. Regardless of which you choose, both promise ample enjoyment and utility.